Siddle Returns to State Set-Up as NSW Bolsters Coaching Ranks

New South Wales have strengthened their backroom staff ahead of Brad Haddin’s first season in charge, with Peter Siddle appointed as bowling coach and Johan Botha joining as a temporary spin consultant for the 2026-27 campaign.

Siddle, 41, will work with the Blues across all Sheffield Shield matches while continuing his playing commitments with the Melbourne Stars in the BBL. He joins Peter Forrest and Daniel Smith as part of Haddin’s coaching team for the upcoming season.

The appointment represents a significant acquisition for NSW. Siddle, who played the majority of his state career for Victoria before three seasons with Tasmania, brings extensive experience from a distinguished first-class career. While he remains a familiar face in the domestic circuit, the former Australia quick now turns his attention to mentoring the next generation of NSW pace bowlers.

“It’s incredibly exciting to be joining the NSW Blues this season,” Siddle said. “I’m very much looking forward to the opportunity to mentor this talented crop of players ahead of what will be a massive summer. I can’t wait to get stuck in.”

Botha’s involvement adds further depth to the coaching set-up. The former South Africa spinner, who resigned as Queensland coach earlier this year, will work with the team on a temporary basis, offering specialist spin consultancy during the pre-season period.

Haddin, entering his first season as head coach, expressed confidence in the newly assembled team. “Peter and Johan joining the Blues set-up shows that we’re committed to having high-quality people around the team,” he said. “Not only does Peter bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, but he exemplifies how we want our cricketers to play the game. We’re confident we have built a well-rounded coaching team ahead of what should be an exciting season for the Blues.”

NSW possess a deep bowling attack heading into the season. In the pace department, the Blues are well-stocked with several international-calibre players. Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis provide experience and left-arm variety, while Liam Hatcher, who has been named in the Australia A squad to tour India, offers raw pace. Emerging quick Ryan Hadley and allrounder Jack Edwards add further depth, though Australia’s frontline trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are rarely available for state duty due to international commitments.

The spin options are equally promising. Joel Davies has earned selection in the ODI squad for tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, while Tanveer Sangha will travel with the white-ball contingent of the Australia A side to India, ensuring both players will gain valuable experience abroad.

Season Opener

NSW begin their campaign with a One-Day Cup fixture against Queensland on September 22, before their opening Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania on October 8. With a strengthened coaching team and a talented playing group, Haddin’s Blues will be aiming to make an immediate impact this season.

                                               

Relevant news